Dr Kelly Fleming

What most people don’t know about me is that I have Asperger’s Syndrome.

As a child, I was labeled “learning disabled”. But it was more than that. I knew I was different from other people in the way I thought about things, had difficulty answering someone if they asked two questions at the same time and my social skills.

I was able to “fake my way” through the social skills issue when I was with hearing people. Amongst Deaf people who used my own language, most people assumed I was more of a “people watcher” than a participant when it came to group conversations.

One on one conversations were fine and if I got confused, I’d try to change the subject.

Some people thought it was odd that I was “fixated” by particular topics and activities.

I’m a bright woman but when it comes to things that don’t “click” with me, I just don’t understand.

Having Asperger’s is difficult because many people do not believe me. They automatically make that subconscious stereotypical assumption of “oh autistic, you can’t be autistic, you’re smart”.

Yes, I’m good at learning languages, understanding history, religion and things that capture my interest. Beyond that, I struggle.

I’m 50 years old and still learning “appropriate” communication skills. I try my best but I’ll always have Asperger’s. It’s just a part of what makes ME!